Finance and Economics MSc

The MSc Finance and Economics program offers a comprehensive exploration of advanced economic and financial concepts. You will delve into micro and macro perspectives, learning how to apply these principles to analyse real-world economic and financial data. The programme encourages critical evaluation of the impact of various policies on financial markets and the broader economy, fostering adaptability in decision-making theories to account for behavioral biases.

In addition to these core elements, you will gain valuable skills in financial analysis and data interpretation, essential for making informed choices even in less-than-perfect data scenarios. The programme emphasises the significance of effective communication, both written and oral, to convey technical analyses to diverse audiences.

Upon completion, you'll emerge well-prepared to excel in the ever-evolving world of finance and economics, equipped with not only knowledge and skills but also a deep understanding of ethical, social and global dimensions within these fields.

Our teaching staff are committed to delivering an educational experience of the highest standard. You’ll be taught by leading academics who benefit from industry experience and a unique understanding of how the financial world works in practice. They will bring the course to life through a variety of inspiring and practical teaching methods, with all sessions being delivered in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.

Practical experience

This programme has a strong practical element. You’ll gain hands-on experience working with real-time financial, accounting and economic data, thanks to our dedicated trading room facility and industry leading software. Your exposure to these practical tools and techniques will give you the confidence and technical capability to gain a competitive advantage over other graduates in the job market.

You’ll study the Aston Global Advantage module which focuses on professional development and employability, helping you to apply the key skills that you will gain throughout the year. There will also be a range of opportunities to gain practical experience through things such as consultancy projects and entrepreneurial opportunities.

This programme also offers the opportunity to study a second degree at one of our international partner institutions once you have completed your year at Aston University.

Modules

Core modules

Microeconomics

Macroeconomics

Behavioural Economics and Policy 

Business Finance 

International Finance

Financial Econometrics 

The Aston Global Advantage

Ethics in Academic Practice

Research Methods

MSc Finance and Economics Research Project

Optional modules

Note: Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.

Derivatives 

Python for Finance 

Blockchain and Fintech 

Private Equity and Venture Capital 

International trade and Development

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:

Email: pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk

Call: 0121 204 3200 (Please note this line is open Monday-Friday between 10am-4pm)

Please click here for guidance on completing the postgraduate application.

Our programme directors are our experts

Entry requirements

One of the following:

• A UK honours degree, minimum Lower Second Class (2:2)
• Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University
   

Subject specific requirements:

• Two professional references – at least one must be from an academic referee
• An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
• A completed application form

International students

• An official academic transcript, with an official English translation, of your university grades to date
  .
• Students whose native language is not English will also need to satisfy our English language requirements. Pre-sessional English language programmes are available for good applicants whose English qualification falls just short of these requirements.
   
• Postgraduate masters students enrolling to Aston Business School with a 5.5 in one of the four IELTS sections will be required to engage with English language tuition as part of our professional development programme, The Aston Global Advantage. There will be no extra cost to the student.
   
• Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston. 
   
• For more information about qualifications, view our Aston in your country webpage.

Extensive work experience 

We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications, but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.

The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications. Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.

Please note, if you do not meet the subject-specific requirements for this programme, you may be considered for an alternative programme which may be better suited to your academic/professional background. If you receive an offer for an alternative programme and do not wish to move forward with this, please contact the Admissions team at pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk. 

We use a variety of engaging teaching methods to ensure you get the most out of your studies.

Learning and teaching

You will experience a range of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials, and workshops taking place on-campus as well as online. Comprehensive supporting materials for each module will be made available via a virtual learning environment.

Assessment

Taught modules will be assessed through a mix of different assessment methods, such as examinations, individual and group coursework, and presentations.  You’ll also be required to conduct relevant and up-to-date research involving finding a research question, writing a literature review, analysing data, and developing critical recommendations based on your findings.

Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year a placement year fee applies.

More information on fees and funding

UK postgraduate loans

If you're thinking about studying a masters course with us, you may be eligible for a postgraduate loan to help with course fees and living costs. 

Find out more here.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs. 

Find out more about our scholarships here.

Cost shouldn't limit your career aspirations, which is why we are delighted to offer all Aston University graduates (including exchange students) a 20% loyalty scholarship in standard taught MA, MSc and Full-time MBA course fees. Students who have completed their first degree at Aston University will receive an automatic scholarship when applying for their course. If you are not an Aston University graduate there is still a range of UK and international scholarships that you can apply for.

As an Aston University graduate, you will automatically qualify. For more information visit our webpage.

Why choose to study with Aston Business School?

Aston Business School is part of an elite group of business schools thanks to our triple accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. We can help to enhance your career prospects, boost your earning potential and set you on the path to a successful, and rewarding career. 

Aston University is renowned for its excellence in teaching and research and the employability of our graduates. At Aston Business School we are committed to innovative approaches to teaching and education. We are dedicated to providing students with a competitive advantage in the jobs market by delivering the knowledge students need to pursue the many career tracks available to them with a background in international business. Teaching on the course is informed by our world-class scholars and provides you with a deep understanding and skills for conducting business on a global scale. At Aston University, we aim to prepare students for the real world challenges. There are plenty of opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience and apply their knowledge in real-life situations by engaging in live projects and internships.